A nurse is providing teaching to a female client who has herpes simplex virus type 2. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A rationale:
Notifying the surgeon of the temperature elevation is important, but it is not the nurse's priority. A temperature elevation after abdominal surgery could be a sign of infection, but the immediate action should be to assess the surgical incision for any signs of infection.
Choice B rationale:
Encouraging the client to drink more fluids is a good practice to maintain hydration and promote recovery after surgery. However, it is not the nurse's priority in this situation. The elevated temperature and potential infection take precedence over increasing fluid intake.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer because the nurse's priority is to assess the surgical incision for signs of infection. An elevated temperature is a significant finding after surgery, and it may indicate a surgical site infection, which requires prompt assessment and intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is an essential nursing intervention after surgery, but it is not the priority when the client has an elevated temperature and a recent surgical incision.
The nurse must first assess for signs of infection before proceeding with routine vital sign monitoring.

Choice A rationale:

Leflunomide is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used for rheumatoid arthritis, but it does not typically result in decreased swelling within one week. It usually takes several weeks or even months for its full effect to be observed.

Choice B rationale:

Applying hot packs directly to the joint for pain relief is not recommended for rheumatoid arthritis, as heat can exacerbate inflammation. Cold packs or other anti-inflammatory measures are more appropriate.

Choice C rationale:

Steroid medications, such as prednisone, can lead to bone density loss and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements helps to mitigate this risk.

Choice D rationale:

The Varicella vaccine is not directly related to rheumatoid arthritis. It is important for immune support, but it is not specifically required for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.